LYCEUM - Free Society Lab


Basic information

Funding

  • Project Grant Approved: 999 757 €

Information in a nutshell

Since its origin in 1606, the Evangelical lyceum in Bratislava served as the place of enlightenment that put the Slovak nation to its present-day position. Systemic mission work of priests working at the lyceum provided the Slovak nation with education and preparation of representatives of the Slovak intelligentsia. Personalities spreading the “new teaching” to a rather conservative society of the 17th century opened the question of values, social issues and sensitive topics. Many significant representatives in various fields of study in the 19th century graduated from the Evangelical lyceum in Bratislava. It was alma mater for both, the Štúr disciples as well as a whole generation of evangelical intellectuals  who succeeded in many aspects of life, such as diplomacy, literature and politics. The new lyceum building is especially well known; along with the historical building of the Old lyceum situated near Konventná street. It is a two story building built in classicist style in 1783 based on the design of Matej Walch. In the 20th century, the Old evangelical lyceum was transformed due to several construction adaptations. The historical building will be reconstructed soon and adapted for the purpose of a new culture and community centre with multi-purpose premises.

Project description

The subject of the project is the creation of a modern laboratory for free-thinking, faith, creativity, culture, and dialogue in the historic building of the Old Lyceum. The main idea of the project is based on the belief that if the church wants to understand human beings, it must also be interested in non-spiritual aspects of life. The Evangelical Lyceum in Bratislava has been the center of the Enlightenment since its foundation in 1606. The systematic work of personalities working in Lyceum brought the Slovak nation education and the expansion of intelligence. The project aims to restore the free spirit of the lyceum and raise awareness of its historical role. The project will include the organization of activities focused on interfaith, intercultural, and international dialogue. The project activities will present the fulfillment of the epitome of justice and mutual belonging. Their task is to build on the revived history and develop its legacy for the 21st century. The legacy of freedom is nowadays especially important in times of hate speech, fake news, and growing anti-system forces.

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